EU sanctions Crimean educators for militarizing children

The European Union has imposed personal sanctions against a number of people from the occupied Crimea, including educators, who are suspected of promoting the militarization of children. The list includes heads of educational institutions and educational structures that implement military-patriotic programs and promote service in the Russian army.

This was reported by Krym. Realii.

Among them is Antonina Shepchenko, a school principal in Simferopol district, who is accused of systematically implementing military-patriotic education and involving children in preparing for service in the army of the aggressor country.

According to the EU's decision, under her leadership, the school created so-called "cadet classes" where, in addition to standard education, students receive military psychological training and specialized workshops. The program aims to develop students' readiness to serve in both the civilian and military spheres.

In addition, Shepchenko organized events glorifying the Russian army and the annexation of Crimea, and collaborated with military-patriotic organizations. The school's social media regularly posts materials about students' participation in such initiatives, including actions to support the Russian military.

Along with her, Svetlana Dmitrova, the head of the so-called Department of Education of the Simferopol district, was also included in the sanctions list. According to the EU, she actively promotes the policy of militarization of education, promotes the opening of cadet classes and cooperates with organizations such as the Unarmy. Under her leadership, at least 36 such classes have already been set up in the district's schools.

Human rights activists emphasize that the inclusion of educators in the sanctions lists is an important signal: not only political leaders, but also local managers who facilitate the involvement of children in military structures will be held accountable. According to them, this is only the beginning of a broad campaign against the militarization of minors in the occupied territories.

Also in April, Ukraine imposed sanctions on five representatives of the Russian cultural sphere, who, according to the authorities, spread propaganda and justified the war under the guise of international art events. Among those sanctioned are figures associated with performances and propaganda in the occupied Crimea.

Анна Бальчінос